Ginkgo - Ginkgo biloba

Ginkgo biloba is a beautiful and ancient tree that is native to China. The leaves and seeds are used medicinally. The “nuts” inside the fruits are used in a traditional food called congee. They are also used by the cosmetic industry in skin serums.

The key constituents in ginkgo are flavonoids, terpene lactones, ginkgolic acids and polysaccharides. Ginkgo is used traditionally as a circulatory stimulant and cardiac tonic. It is used for asthma. It is antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antispasmodic. It is believed to aid memory, although studies are mixed, and is used for dementia. It is used for multiple sclerosis, and autoimmune conditions because of its anti-inflammatory effects. Ginkgo inhibits platelet activating factor (PAF which thickens blood and makes it stickier). This is thought to prevent blood clots.

In Traditional Chinese Medicine the seeds are for wheezing and phlegm. Vaginal discharge, weak bladder, incontinence. The leaves are used for asthma. Western medicine focuses on the leaves effect on the brain and the antiallergenic and anti-inflammatory actions on asthma. It is thought that the positive effects on the brain are due to increased blood flow, decreased clotting which prevents stroke, and the antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. It is thought to be neuromodulating.

Suggested Dosing: Tincture of leaves 2 tsp 2-3 x day with water.

Possible Side Effects: Bleeding, allergy

Contraindications: Do not combine with anticoagulant or antiplatelet medications, NSAIDs, or insulin without consulting your physician.

Disclaimer: These statements have not been evaluated by the FDA and are not intended to diagnose or treat any illness. I am not a medical professional and cannot diagnose or treat any illness.